Following an extensive £340k investment with Punch Pubs & Co, The Lion pub in Newtown has reopened and is thriving, breathing new life into one of the town’s most loved community locals.
At the heart of the business, and leading the way, is longstanding Management Partner Jessica Walters-Davies, who has been part of the pub’s identity for more than two decades. Having worked her way through the business from a young age, Jess brings deep-rooted local knowledge, passion and pride to the pub’s new chapter.
“The Lion has been a huge part of my life for almost 25 years, so reopening it feels incredibly special,” said Jessica. “This pub is all about the community, it’s where people meet, celebrate, compete, watch sport and enjoy a great range of drinks. We’ve worked hard to create a space that feels fresh, but still very much The Lion, and the feedback we’ve received already has been wonderful.”
The significant refurbishment focused on revitalising the pub, ensuring it remains at the heart of the community, with strong local partnerships and a warm, friendly welcome for all.
Aesthetically, the pub now boasts refreshed signage, improved lighting and a redesigned bar area. Its décor has been updated throughout, while designated zones create flexible spaces for guests to enjoy a drink with family and friends, or take part in a game of darts or pool.
With the addition of five television screens, The Lion now offers one of the strongest community sport setups in the town – all upgraded with sound, Sky Sports and TNT coverage, making it the go-to destination for the world’s biggest sporting events.
Externally, the rear beer garden has also been refreshed to provide additional seating, improved lighting and atmosphere – perfectly in time for the warmer months.
While the physical transformation has been the talk of the town, it’s the pubs’ new entertainment schedule that truly brings The Lion to life. Delivering a jam-packed agenda, ranging from live sport and bingo to quizzes and karaoke, Jess and the team have ensured that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Punch Pubs & Co Senior Operations Manager Rachael Henry added: “This investment demonstrates our commitment to The Lion as a true community pub at the heart of Newtown, and Jessica is the ideal partner to lead this next chapter. She understands her customers, the town and what it takes to create a pub people are proud of.
“We’re incredibly proud of the transformation and excited to see The Lion reopen and thrive long into the future.”
Having settled into her ‘new’ surroundings, Jessica and the team have had a flying start at The Lion and were even joined recently by Strictly royalty, Craig Revel-Horwood, who stopped by and pulled a pint on his visit while touring nearby last weekend.
Pub website: The Lion – Unity Social Pub Co
Pub Facebook: The Lion Newtown